Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed in Maldives during his visit, which coincided with the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu hosted an official banquet in honour of PM Modi and congratulated him for becoming the second longest consecutively serving Prime Minister of India.
During his speech at the banquet, President Muizzu said, “First of all, let me convey my heartiest congratulations to Your Excellency on becoming the second longest-serving Prime Minister of India today. This remarkable milestone, 4078 consecutive days in office, is a testament to your unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to the progress and prosperity of the Indian people.”
In response, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Muizzu and said that it was a great honour to be in the Maldives as the Guest of Honour on such a special occasion. He also said it was a privilege to be the first State Guest of President Muizzu’s tenure, adding that the timing of his visit made it even more meaningful, as this year also marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives.
PM Modi said, “Arriving here as the Guest of Honour on the 60th Independence Day of Maldives is an honour for me. For this invitation, I express my gratitude to the President. On behalf of all the people of India, I extend heartfelt greetings to the people of Maldives.”
He further added, “This year, the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives relations is also being celebrated. This happy coincidence has made my visit even more special.”
Emphasising the strong bond between the two nations, PM Modi said, “India-Maldives relations are centuries-old. We are neighbours, partners, and true friends who stand together in times of need. Like I said earlier too, Maldives holds a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This is not just diplomacy but a relation of deep affinity.”
